The Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, has described the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival as a priceless cultural heritage capable of preserving Yoruba identity, promoting national unity and driving tourism-led economic development.

Adams made this assertion on Friday while delivering a keynote address at the 2026 Osun-Osogbo Festival held at L’aaro Primary School, Asubiaro, Isale Osun, Osogbo.

He said the globally acclaimed festival, which has endured for over seven centuries, has evolved from a local spiritual observance into an internationally recognised cultural event that attracts thousands of visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

According to him, the festival remains a living testament to the faith, culture and resilience of the Yoruba people, while serving as a platform for promoting the race’s rich traditions to the global community.

“The Osun-Osogbo Festival is not merely an event marked on our calendars; it is a vibrant celebration of our rich Yoruba heritage and a living testament to our ancestors’ enduring faith, culture and unity,” he said.

Adams explained that the festival, centred around the Osun Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, honours Osun, the revered river goddess, while strengthening communal harmony and reconnecting the people with their cultural roots.

He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, the festival has become an important platform for cultural exchange, education and tourism, showcasing Yoruba music, dance, arts, rituals and storytelling to the world.

The Aare Ona Kakanfo commended the Osun State Government for sustaining the festival through continuous investments in infrastructure, security and tourism promotion.

He said initiatives such as the establishment of the Osun Tourism Board and the upgrading of cultural tourism sites across Osogbo, Ile-Ife, Ilesa and Ede had further strengthened the state’s tourism potential while creating jobs and stimulating economic activities.

Adams also paid glowing tribute to the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, Laaroye II, describing the monarch as a passionate custodian of Yoruba heritage whose commitment has preserved the authenticity and spiritual significance of the annual celebration.

“The Ataoja’s commitment goes beyond ceremonial duties. He is a custodian of our heritage, a unifying figure who inspires the people of Osun and beyond to cherish and celebrate their roots,” he stated.

Looking ahead, Adams urged stakeholders to adopt innovative measures that would expand the festival’s global reach and economic impact.

He advocated the deployment of digital technology through live streaming of festival activities, stronger social media engagement, cultural workshops, art exhibitions, culinary showcases and traditional craft markets to attract younger audiences and international tourists.

He also called for stronger partnerships with international cultural organisations and tourism agencies, improved accommodation, transportation and security infrastructure, as well as greater support for local artisans and entrepreneurs during the festival.

According to him, integrating the Osun-Osogbo Festival into broader state and national tourism strategies would significantly increase its contribution to Osun State’s economy and Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Adams appealed to traditional rulers, governments, private organisations and community leaders to continue working together to preserve and promote the festival for future generations.

He said, “Let us ensure that the Osun-Osogbo Festival not only remains a vibrant cultural celebration but also a powerful engine for economic growth and national pride.”

The cultural leader further expressed appreciation to the Ataoja of Osogbo, the Osun State Government, members of the Olokun Festival Foundation and residents of the state for their continued commitment to sustaining one of Africa’s foremost cultural festivals.

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